Institute of Human Behaviour, Society and Technology
Understanding what shapes the future: The Institute of Human Behaviour, Society and Technology studies the interaction between people, society, and technologies. Our work is interdisciplinary and practical, with a view to the challenges of tomorrow.
«We develop and transmit psychological knowledge for a sustainable digital society and beneficial use of technology.»
Prof. Dr. Daniel Süss
Director, Institute of Human Behaviour, Society and Technology
Our focus areas
The Institute of Human Behaviour, Society and Technology studies how people experience, make decisions, and act in a dynamic world characterized by digitalization, mediatization, and social change. We focus on three key topics:
- We examine how social and technological innovations and transformations influence attitudes, behaviour, and cooperation, and how media and AI competencies as well as social sustainability can be strengthened.
- We analyse how psychological biases shape risk and decision processes and develop approaches for making risks manageable and for making better decisions.
- Our research addresses the growing diversity of human lifestyles and forms of work and supports social integration and recognition of the plural worlds in which people live.
The findings are directly incorporated into practice, consulting, education, and organizational development. The Institute of Human Behaviour, Society and Technology covers the entire spectrum of the field, focusing on the following areas:
Teaching and research
We bring together psychological expertise in various fields of application and work in close cooperation with internal and external partners—in interdisciplinary projects with other centres and specialist groups, other ZHAW schools and departments, and national and international universities. Together we develop innovative solutions for current issues in research, teaching, and practice.
Our subject areas
The institute is divided into the following specialised subject areas, which work closely together:
- Human Factors Psychology
- Media Psychology
- Psychology of Social Transformation
- Environmental and Sustainability Psychology
Continuing education
Our continuing education programme is currently being developed. We teach practical, evidence-based knowledge. Qualified lecturers and a modern infrastructure ensure an application-oriented and sustainable learning experience. We participate in various continuing education programmes offered by other institutes and develop new formats on demand.
Consultancy Services
Findings from our research and development will be incorporated into service offerings, developed according to demand. Individuals, organizations, and companies will benefit from scientifically based solutions. The experts at the Institute of Human Behaviour, Society and Technology support you with their comprehensive technical and methodological expertise. Please direct your enquiries to our specialists.